Maxi dresses are comfortable, flattering, and forgiving for all body types… except for petite women who have trouble finding a maxi dress that won’t be sweeping floor as they walk down the street. Unfortunately, not all brands, stores, or store locations have petite sizes, and if you find a maxi dress that goes down between your ankle and the top of the foot, you’ve got to get it! If you do not get lucky, however, here are a few tips that can reduce the need of having the dress altered.

1. Look for a handkerchief hemline that elongates the bottom half of the body and makes the fabric feel lightweight.

2.Look for a deep v-neck neckline since it elongates the upper body and creates the illusion of hight.

3. Look for a soft fabric and tiny vertical print as this will give you a long continuous line from top to bottom.

3. Wear high heels. Think 5″ (or higher) wedges to reach new heights!

I love this maxi handkerchief dress for its easy flowiness. I like how it moves with me. The dress is easy to add layers over (cropped denim jacket or a long cardigan or poncho) and hide layers under (tank top or a tee), which makes it the perfect transitional piece for unpredictable spring weather.